Roller chains are a popular type of chain that provide a reliable mechanism for transmitting power to many kinds of different moving parts. Since its invention in 1880, conveyor, automotive, food and beverage, and farming equipment have boasted these popular and common types of chains to keep them running. ASME B29.28-2015 (R2020): High-Strength Chains For Power Transmission And Tension Linkages specifies requirements for high-strength roller chains.
What Is the Function of a Roller Chain?
A roller chain is the type of chain drive most commonly used for transmission of mechanical power on many kinds of domestic, transmission, industrial, and agricultural machinery—including conveyors, wire- and tube-drawing machines, printing presses, cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. It is constructed like a typical chain link structure: a series of cylindrical rollers connected by links. On one end of the chain, a rotating sprocket that is connected to the motor moves the chain; the other end of the chain is then connected to some part of the load.
What Is ASME B29.28?
ASME B29.28-2015 (R2020) covers roller chains that are specifically designed to withstand occasional high shock loads, or high starting loads, that are encountered in certain construction equipment and other severe-duty applications. The general proportions of high-strength roller chains are the same as for heavy series chains listed in ASME B29.1.
Chains covered in this Standard should not be used as the primary lifting member, or in the direct drive line of elevators, escalators, or similar devices for lifting human passengers unless applied in accordance with ASME A17.1. Chains covered in this standard should not be used as climbing chains.
Types of Roller Chains
Roller chain types include standard, heavy duty, double pitch for light loads, attachment options, and many application-specific geometries. Weight ratings with these chains begin only over 1,000 pounds of tensile strength to over 150,000, providing plenty of power for nearly any application. Anytime heavy loads or handle need to be lifted repetitively, roller chains provide an option with a long productive life and little maintenance. Using a heavy roller chain allows you to expand the service life of a chain and adds durability and strength without having to increase the chain’s size.
Heavy-Duty Roller Chains
Roller chains are made according to the impact force of the load to be operated. Heavy series roller chains have thicker link plates. The inner and outer link plates are thickened, so that the chains can endure more demanding working conditions and are less prone to wear and tears and have improved resistance to fatigue. Heavy-duty roller chains are chains capable of pulling huge loads, working under impact-filled conditions, construction equipment, oil rigs, drills, and amusement park structures. They are optimal to use in agricultural applications, skid steers, heavy equipment, and any application that you are looking to increase the strength of the chain without having to go up a size.
ASME B29.28-2015 (R2020): High-Strength Chains For Power Transmission And Tension Linkages is available on the ANSI Webstore.
